Need To Replace Plumbing Pipes? 3 Options To Consider

Category: Plumbing

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Residential plumbing is generally sturdy and long-lasting. But most homeowners find that parts of a system need to be replaced from time to time. If you own one of Cincinnati’s fine older homes, you might have replaced an entire system.

Here are three of the more common types of plumbing pipes:

Copper: Copper pipe or tubing is extremely common in plumbing applications. Copper tubing is flexible to a point but can easily be bent or kinked if it’s not handled carefully. Joining lengths of copper pipe usually requires some skill in soldering. Compression fittings are sometimes used to make connecting lengths easier. Copper can leach from the pipes and into water supplies with a pH that’s lower than 6.5. PVC plastic pipe may be a better choice in this situation.

Galvanized steel: Galvanized steel was once commonly used for residential plumbing. If you own an older home, you might still have galvanized steel pipe in your basement. Or if you live in a rural area and use your own water, your well casing is probably galvanized steel. But copper and PVC pipe are the preferred materials today for residential plumbing systems. Rust can develop inside small-diameter galvanized pipes, and in some cases, rust or scale can break loose and discolor the water.

PVC: PVC or similar plastic pipe and plumbing fittings are widely used and easily adapted for use in home-plumbing settings. PVC does not rust, is easy to cut and can be securely glued or attached with compression fittings. Make sure the PVC or similar plastic pipe you use is labeled NSF-PW or NSF-61 to ensure that it is intended for use with potable water.

It has been more than 102 years since Apollo Home Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing was founded, and during that century, we have become a leading provider of heating, cooling and plumbing services throughout the Cincinnati area. Contact us for more information on how to replace plumbing pipes and the best types for your project.